Mangaluru Airport Demonstrates Consistent Growth in Domestic Cargo Operations
Mangaluru, October 04, 2023: The Integrated Cargo Terminal (ICT) at Mangaluru International Airport has proven to be a pivotal hub for expeditious cargo handling. Since its inauguration on May 1 this year until September 30, the terminal has successfully managed 1676.21 tonnes of domestic cargo, encompassing both inbound and outbound shipments. Among this, outbound cargo accounts for 1560.23 tonnes, while the remainder constitutes inbound cargo.
The majority of outbound cargo primarily consists of postal mail. General cargo, valuables, marine products, and ornamental fish make up a smaller portion of the cargo flow. Inbound cargo includes postal mail, valuables, machinery components, medical supplies, and equipment. The ICT has also accommodated occasional shipments of fruits, vegetables, and excess baggage that were booked as cargo by traveling passengers.
“The airport’s commitment to efficient cargo handling was assured during a recent interaction with the local trade body, the Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI),” stated the airport spokesperson. “Initiatives are underway to initiate international cargo operations, as per KCCI’s request. This will be activated once the airport obtains Customs clearance and custodianship for export handling,” the spokesperson added.
In the meantime, local exporters of marine products have found the ICT to be an invaluable conduit for shipping their goods to international clientele. Fayaz Ahmed, an exporter specializing in marine products, particularly crabs destined for China via Kolkata, extols the cargo terminal as a game-changer. “Crabs command a premium in the Chinese market. The support provided by the airport in expediting and ensuring timely dispatch of such cargo will undoubtedly encourage exporters to make regular use of this facility,” he affirmed.
